Virgil's Real BBQ

Virgil's Real BBQ brings Southern comfort food to Miracle Mile, and while purists might argue about "real" BBQ in a Vegas mall, the happy hour doesn't mess around. Monday through Thursday from 3-6pm, you're getting $7 drafts and $7-9 cocktails, plus the smell of smoke and meat that makes you instantly hungry. It's not Texas roadhouse authentic, but the food is solid and the drinks are strong enough to make you forget you're eating BBQ in a shopping center.

Happy Hour Breakdown

M-Th, 3-6pm—weekdays only, so plan accordingly. The $7 draft beers cover a decent selection: domestics, some craft options, and a few Southern-style brews that pair well with BBQ. $7-9 cocktails depending on what you order—whiskey-based drinks are the move here. They do a solid bourbon selection, and the bartenders know how to make a proper Old Fashioned or Whiskey Sour.

No specific food discounts during happy hour, which is a bummer since BBQ isn't cheap. But if you're eating anyway, at least the drinks are reasonably priced.

What to Order

If you're hungry, the burnt ends are the play—chunks of brisket with that crispy, caramelized bark. Pulled pork is consistently good, tender and smoky. Ribs are solid if you're going full barbecue experience. The mac and cheese is creamy and indulgent, exactly what you want as a side.

For drinks, stick with bourbon or whiskey cocktails—they've got a solid selection and it matches the food. The draft beer list usually has something from a Southern brewery or at least a beer that pairs well with smoked meat. Sweet tea is available if you're trying to complete the Southern stereotype.

The Vibe

It's designed to look like an old Southern BBQ joint—exposed brick, wood everywhere, BBQ memorabilia on the walls. Does it feel authentic? Not really—it's still clearly a casino mall restaurant. But it's comfortable, the booths are big, and the atmosphere is relaxed compared to some of the louder spots in Miracle Mile.

Crowd is mostly tourists. Families eating early dinner, couples taking a break from shopping, groups who want to sit down and eat actual food. It's not a party spot or a local hangout—it's where people go when they want BBQ and aren't worried about authenticity.

Service is generally solid. Staff is friendly, they know the menu, and they keep drinks coming during happy hour without hovering.

Real Talk

Is this the best BBQ you'll ever have? Probably not. If you've had real Texas brisket or Carolina pulled pork, you'll notice this is the Vegas tourist version. But it's still pretty damn good, the portions are huge, and the smoky flavor is legit. The happy hour makes the drinks affordable, which is the real value here since the food prices are standard for the Strip.

It's perfect for a weekday afternoon when you want something heartier than apps, appreciate whiskey, and don't feel like wandering far from Planet Hollywood. The Monday-Thursday restriction is annoying, but if you're in town mid-week and craving BBQ, Virgil's delivers enough smoke and bourbon to satisfy.